The study of the Middle Ages in every aspect of the modern liberal arts—the humanities, STEM, and the social sciences—has significant importance for society and the individual. There is a common belief that the peoples of the past were somehow exempt from (positive, especially) human nature, had less of a sense of morality (by any definition) than we do now, or were unaware of basic human dilemmas or triumphs. Relegating the Middle Ages to "primitive" distances us from close examination of what has not changed in society—or what has, which might not be for the better. Exploring and exploding these (mis)conceptions is essential to experience the benefits of a liberal education.

Kisha G. Tracy is Associate Professor of English Studies and Chair of the General Education Program Area at Fitchburg State University, USA.

Introduction: The Middle Ages and the Liberal Arts
Chapter 1: The Middle Ages and the Humanities
Chapter 2: The Middle Ages and STEM
Chapter 3: The Middle Ages and the Social Sciences
Chapter 4: The Significance of Studying the Middle Ages
Conclusion: The Connections Among the Arts
Further Reading